Module QXE-2101:Beowulf to Malory

Module Facts

Run by School of Languages, Literatures and Linguistics

20 Credits or 10 ECTS Credits

Semester 2

Organiser:
Prof Raluca Radulescu

Overall aims and purpose

The term ‘medieval’ is frequently identified with what is more properly Middle English literature; this course uses the term to apply more precisely to the English literature which existed between the Classical and the Renaissance periods. Accordingly, we divide the course between Old and Middle English literature
and give you the opportunity to sample both. Some texts will be taught in translation, allowing you to consider what translation is, or should be; there will also be the opportunity to read some texts in the original and to study their linguistic as well as their literary features. To have taken QXE1003 would be desirable but not essential; the prime aims of this course are to introduce you to some splendid texts and to remove chronological remoteness as an artificial barrier to enjoyment of this significant portion of our literary heritage.

Course content

The module will cover both the Old English and the Middle English periods, with Old English literature being taught in translation.

Assessment Criteria

threshold

D: A 3rd class candidate's work will show many of the following features:
Unsure and lacking in confidence when discussing ideas.
Referring to the subject in question in a superficial manner
Little evidence of background reading
Some points in the argument irrelevant to the topic
Making an effort to provide fairly balanced answers
Some uncertainty over language and syntax
Strengths and weaknesses fairly balanced
In creative work: superficial.
Not succeeding in mastering the requirements of the medium
Occasionally clumsy and unimaginative

good

B: A 2(i) candidate's work will show many of the following qualities
Discusses ideas adeptly
Displays knowledge of the subject in question; the answer is relevant.
Shows analytical and clear thought.
Gives evidence of relevant reading.
Most of the arguments about a specific field are well-aired.
Plans of well-balanced and full answers, despite some gaps.
Shows accuracy in expression with mastery over language.
A few minor errors here and there
Signs of creative thought deserve a higher position within the class.
In creative work: shows signs of originality, having understood the requirements of the medium.
C: A 2(ii) candidate's work will show many of the following qualities:
Discusses ideas, but without much confidence
Makes reference to the subject in question, but some important matters not mentioned
Fairly clear thought on most occasions, and the arguments relevant on the whole. Evidence of having read some works associated with the field in question.

Evidence of planning in the answers, but a lack of coherence at times.
Quite accurate expression, though the points may sometimes be presented clumsily
Signs of conscientious work deserve a higher position within the class.
In creative work: not having quite mastered the requirements of the medium.
A few flashes of originality here and there.
A respectable effort but not showing any unusual talent.
Undisciplined and unsure at times.

excellent

A: Typically, the work of a first class candidate will show many of the following qualities:
Discusses ideas with confidence and precision
Demonstrates maturity and sophistication.
Displays deep knowledge of the subject in question; the answer is totally relevant.
Shows independent, analytical and clear thought
Gives evidence of substantial and relevant reading.
Shows great accuracy in expression, displaying total mastery over all aspects of the language.
Shows occasional signs of brilliance and originality of thought.
In creative work: displays considerable originality
Command over medium.
May have potential for publication/production.

Learning outcomes

The ability to engage in sophisticated argument and analysis of the literature of the period

The ability to make informed and appropriate critical analysis of the selected texts

Some understanding of pre-Renaissance, linguistic development, basic translation skills and an awareness
of the issues posed by translation

The ability to identify and discuss distinctive features of particular texts and to make connections
between them

The ability to site them within a literary, historical, political and cultural context

Familiarity with a sample range of medieval texts

Assessment Methods

Type

Name

Description

Weight

Essay

50

Examination

50

Teaching and Learning Strategy

Hours

Seminar

11

Study group

11

Private study

156

Lecture

22

Transferable skills

Literacy - Proficiency in reading and writing through a variety of media

Computer Literacy - Proficiency in using a varied range of computer software

Self-Management - Able to work unsupervised in an efficient, punctual and structured manner. To examine the outcomes of tasks and events, and judge levels of quality and importance

Exploring - Able to investigate, research and consider alternatives

Information retrieval - Able to access different and multiple sources of information

Inter-personal - Able to question, actively listen, examine given answers and interact sensitevely with others

Critical analysis & Problem Solving - Able to deconstruct and analyse problems or complex situations. To find solutions to problems through analyses and exploration of all possibilities using appropriate methods, rescources and creativity.

Presentation - Able to clearly present information and explanations to an audience. Through the written or oral mode of communication accurately and concisely.

Teamwork - Able to constructively cooperate with others on a common task, and/or be part of a day-to-day working team

Argument - Able to put forward, debate and justify an opinion or a course of action, with an individual or in a wider group setting

Self-awareness & Reflectivity - Having an awareness of your own strengths, weaknesses, aims and objectives. Able to regularly review, evaluate and reflect upon the performance of yourself and others